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FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

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AGC requests for time to respond to application by Malaysian Bar seeking judicial review. Objection to bid to challenge Pardons Board decision

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TUESDAY Family and parenting

Visa-free gems to visit Find unique experiences at lesser-known destinations – P12

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p 21 Malaysians plan to balance local, international travel

p 23 Louvre heist inspires alarm across European museums

p 24 Whalefall review: Strangely beautiful, gripping thriller

House arrest rules Report on h page 2 Najib allowed to live with immediate family and attend Friday prayers, but restricted from having visitors, leaving house or using communication devices without approval.

A request by ex-PM Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak to use a second residence as an additional location for his house arrest has been rejected. – SUNPIC

Acid test for coalition pacts in Malacca polls

GPS moves to boost aid delivery to rural folk Coalition keen to fix factors causing many to miss out on initiatives: Caretaker minister

Report on — page 4

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Key challenge in getting voters to support parties they previously opposed, says analyst.

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

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Minister spells out conditions for house arrest arrangement

Reintroducing GST not viable when incomes low: Anwar KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that the government position against reintroducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is not driven by political considerations but by a commitment to ensuring that the taxation system does not burden the people. Anwar said reintroducing GST while incomes remain low is not a viable option as the tax is broad-based and could potentially increase the cost-of-living burden. However, he said the government is open to making adjustments to the existing Sales and Services Tax (SST) system, including addressing the double taxation issue raised by industry players, without having to revert to GST. “I am not dogmatic when it comes to economics. The system remains SST but if we can make one or two adjustments to improve it, why not? “I am firmly against the GST. It’s not about politics. If it benefits the economy and the people, I will go ahead with it,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. He was replying to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran), who wanted to know if the reluctance to reintroduce GST stems from the political stance of previous administration leaders rather than economic considerations. Anwar said the main difference between the two tax systems is that GST is imposed broadly on consumers while SST is more focused on the business level, although some of the tax burden could also be passed on to consumers. He said the implementation of GST could only be considered when income reaches a higher level, for instance, a minimum income of RM4,000, to ensure that the tax does not place an excessive burden on low-income groups. Anwar said about 2,000 types of goods and services were exempt from tax under SST compared with fewer than 750 under GST. – Bernama Nation to uphold One China policy, Taiwan ties KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will not compromise its foreign policy principles for trade or investment interests, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, reaffirming the country’s longstanding One China policy while pledging to safeguard trade and investment ties with Taiwan. He said Malaysia, as an independent and sovereign nation, would uphold its foreign policy position adopted in 1974 despite possible objections from certain quarters in Taiwan. He added that the government would take the necessary measures to safeguard trade and investment relations. “We are maintaining relations to ensure investments are not affected. As I explained earlier, there are no signs of any impact on investments,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. – Bernama

Ű BY THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

additional location for his house arrest has been rejected. Saifuddin Nasution said the Prisons Department had also been empowered to introduce additional regulations for Najib’s supervision and monitoring, with the relevant instructions and procedures communicated to him before his transfer to his residence. The conditions also prohibit Najib from relocating to another house, building or premises or leaving his designated residence without obtaining prior written approval. However, he said arrangements would be made to allow him to attend religious activities, including Friday prayers at a mosque or surau.

o Pardons Board permits former PM to share home with only immediate family members

KUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak is allowed to share his residence only with immediate family members while serving the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday that the conditions imposed by the Federal Territories Pardons Board permit Najib to live with his wife, children, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. He said individuals outside the permitted family circle must secure prior written approval from the

the other conditions governing his house arrest are restrictions on his engagement with the media and prohibition from taking part in political activities throughout the remainder of his sentence. He was responding to a question from Suhaizan Kaiat (PH-Pulai) on the specific restrictions imposed on Najib. Saifuddin Nasution said Najib is also barred from leaving his residence without written approval. Meanwhile, Najib’s request to use a second residence as an

board before they can stay at the residence. Najib is also not allowed to receive visitors unless written permission has been obtained. He added that the Pardons Board had established restrictions covering four main areas, namely accommodation and personal associations, movements and visitors, the use of telephones and communication devices as well as participation in rehabilitation and intervention programmes. Saifuddin Nasution said among

Madani govt successful in reducing fiscal deficit, says PM KUALA LUMPUR: In line with its commitment under the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), the Madani government has undertaken fiscal reforms that have successfully narrowed the fiscal deficit from 6.4% in 2021 to 5.5% in 2022, 5.0% in 2023, 4.1% in 2024 and 3.7% in 2025, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the deficit is projected to narrow further to 3.6% in 2026, 3.3% in 2027 and 3.0% in 2028. Anwar said the narrowing deficit had reduced the government’s borrowing requirements, with new borrowings falling to RM75.6 billion in 2025 from RM76.8 billion in 2024, RM92.6 billion in 2023 and RM100 billion each in 2021 and 2022. “Net borrowing requirements for 2026 are expected to remain around last year’s level of debt obligations despite the government facing higher subsidy pressures arising from the conflict in West Asia.” He said the federal government’s debt-to-GDP ratio is also on a downward trajectory, projected to decline to 64% in 2026 from 65.2% in 2025. Anwar said the ratio is expected to fall further to 63.7% in 2027 against the FRA target of 60%. He said new borrowings by the government are used to finance national development, including schools, hospitals, roads, water and electricity supply. “We also have to meet inherited financial obligations. In 2023 alone, RM13 billion was needed to redeem 1MDB bonds.” Anwar, who is also Finance minister, said as long as the national budget remains in deficit and is financed through borrowings, the country’s total debt would continue to increase. “Debt is cumulative. Net borrowings in the current year add to the outstanding debt from previous years that has yet to be repaid. “The Madani government took office with an already towering debt burden exceeding RM1 trillion,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.

Anwar said new borrowings under the Madani government are used to finance national development, including schools, hospitals, roads, and water and electricity supply. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/ THESUN

into account, the broader debt and liabilities ratio stood at 80.7% as of June 2026, down from 80.9% at end 2022 and 80.3% in 2017. Anwar said fiscal management is aimed at ensuring that fiscal policy remains expansionary to support economic growth. He said targeted subsidies had also helped shield the public from fluctuations in global oil prices arising from the conflict in West Asia. Anwar said as the Madani government approaches its fourth anniversary, economic indicators continue to point to encouraging fundamentals that would strengthen the country’s resilience. – Bernama

He added that prior to 2018, some government expenditure was also financed through off-balance sheet arrangements, including government-guaranteed commitments and public-private partnership projects. He said although these commitments were not recorded as direct debt, they still had implications for the government’s financial position and could potentially become liabilities for the country. Anwar said as such, the direct debt figure of about 50% of the GDP at the time did not reflect the country’s full financial commitments and liabilities. He said taking debt and liabilities

He was responding to Howard Lee Chuan How (DAP-Ipoh Timor), who asked why the government had yet to reduce national debt to a more sustainable level and to what extent the current fiscal position provides room for intervention measures to protect the economy and public wellbeing should the conflict in West Asia escalate. Addressing claims that the previous administration had recorded a lower debt-to-GDP ratio, Anwar said such comparisons do not provide a complete picture of the country’s financial position. “This is because comparing debt to-GDP ratios alone is insufficient to assess the government’s overall financial obligations.”

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

3 ‘Alliances between parties to be tested in upcoming polls’

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING seat-sharing

JAYA:

Beyond

arrangements, the Malacca polls will test whether the Barisan Nasional (BN)-Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH)-Bersatu cooperations would translate into genuine grassroots support, particularly among voters whose parties were once political rivals. Universiti Malaya political analyst Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said the arrangements marked a significant shift in Malacca’s traditional electoral competition, but said agreements between party leaders do not automatically guarantee support from their respective supporters. He added that the key challenge would be whether voters were willing to support candidates from parties they had previously opposed, with local leadership, candidate credibility and government performance also influencing their decisions. “Political cooperation does not automatically translate into electoral support. The key factor will be whether supporters are willing to transfer their votes to candidates from parties they previously opposed.” He also said convincing grassroots supporters remained a major challenge for both political arrangements, given the historical rivalry between Umno and PAS, as well as lingering distrust within PH following the Sheraton Move in 2020. “Party leaders may agree on political cooperation, but grassroots acceptance cannot be guaranteed. Supporters will need convincing explanations of how the arrangements serve their interests and reflect their political principles.” Mohammad Tawfik said Malacca could serve as a testing ground for political alignments ahead of the 16th General Election, allowing parties to gauge the effectiveness of seat-sharing arrangements, grassroots cooperation and voters’ acceptance of former political rivals. He added that the results could influence future negotiations over parliamentary seats, political leadership and coalition strategies. “However, Malacca’s political dynamics cannot automatically be applied nationwide because voter composition and party strength differ considerably between states.” He also said the developments reflected the growing importance of political pragmatism in Malaysia’s coalition politics, with parties increasingly exploring cooperation based on shared electoral interests despite their ideological differences. “BN could use its cooperation with PN to reduce electoral fragmentation and coordinate campaign resources vulnerable groups and helping residents in need of welfare assistance have been among the priorities of Pakatan Harapan (PH) Paya Rumput state constituency candidate Datuk Azman Abidin throughout his campaign for the 16th Malacca state election. Azman said his grassroots approach had enabled him to identify the needs of residents firsthand, including families requiring welfare assistance and access to health screening services.

guarantee electoral support. He added that the Malacca polls would show whether voters were more inclined to support established political affiliations and parties with strong grassroots networks, or assess candidates based on their capabilities, policies and potential to progress their constituencies. He also said voters should look beyond the political alliances themselves and assess whether the cooperation could deliver socio-economic improvements, strengthen federal-state relations and provide better representation at the constituency level. Noor Nirwandy said the arrangements also presented an opportunity for voters to look beyond past political rivalries and judge the parties based on their ability to work together in the interests of the public. He added that higher voter participation, particularly among younger voters, was important to ensure the election results reflected broader public preferences rather than the views of core supporters with strong partisan affiliations. “Ultimately, the people must

Allegations of BN utilising govt billboards MALACCA: Malacca Pakatan Harapan (PH) deputy chairman Khoo Poay Tiong has alleged that more than 500 billboards belonging to government agencies in the state are being used to campaign for Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates in the 16th Malacca state election. The Kota Melaka MP said the billboards, which previously displayed National Day and Malaysia Day celebration materials, had been replaced with photographs of BN candidates and their campaign materials. Khoo, who is also Malacca DAP chairman, said the move raised questions about the use of government assets for political campaigning and called on the Election Commission (EC) to take stern action if electoral laws had been breached. “This is wrong and in this case, all BN candidates have certainly violated electoral laws. “I suggest that all candidates lodge police reports so that further action can be taken. The EC must investigate the allegations to ensure all parties comply with the rules and conduct their campaigns fairly,” he told a press conference at the PH main operations centre in Bukit Baru yesterday. Meanwhile, Khoo also questioned BN’s and Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) pledges not to increase land tax in Malacca for five years if given the mandate to govern the state, pointing out that a land tax increase had already been implemented in 2024. He said under Section 101(5)(b) of the National Land Code, the state government, regardless of which party was in power, could not revise land tax rates within 10 years of the previous revision. “This means that if the land tax rates were revised in 2024, the state government would not be permitted to conduct another revision until 2034. “So, what exactly are BN and PN promising the people in their manifestos for this Malacca state election?” he asked. Khoo also reminded PH campaign workers to prioritise their safety and health during the remaining day of campaigning before polling. – Bernama Noor Nirwandy said it was still too early to determine whether the shifting alliances would mark a lasting change in Malaysia’s political landscape, as their acceptance and effectiveness would only become clearer after the election. benefit political arrangements. Voters need to participate actively and ensure their choices reflect the candidates and partnerships they believe can bring progress to their constituencies.” from these

o BN-PN, PH-Bersatu partnerships do not guarantee voter support: Political analyst

MALACCA

while PN gains opportunities for representation within a broader political arrangement. “Meanwhile, PH and Bersatu could examine whether limited cooperation helps them reach voters beyond their traditional support bases.” Mohamad Tawfik said if voters perceive the arrangements as merely attempts to secure power without clear policy commitments, such cooperation could create dissatisfaction rather than strengthen political stability. He added that the long-term implications could be considerable, particularly if the Malacca experience encourages further realignment before GE16. “Malaysia could witness more flexible political partnerships (in which) electoral calculations and strategic interests increasingly influence coalition formation.

“However the sustainability of the arrangements will ultimately depend on grassroots acceptance, political trust and whether cooperation produces meaningful benefits for the public.” Meanwhile, UiTM security and political analyst Dr Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said the impact of the political arrangements would ultimately depend on voter turnout and preferences, as cooperation between parties did not necessarily Polling: Nov 14 16th state election

Mohamad Tawfik said if voters perceive the arrangements as merely attempts to secure power without clear policy commitments, such cooperation could create dissatisfaction rather than strengthen political stability.– AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN PH candidate set on helping Paya Rumput residents MALACCA: Reaching out to

effectively to engage with voters and allow them to assess their options, including the changes he hoped to bring to the constituency. “The campaign atmosphere here is heating up as we approach polling day, but it remains calm. If the people of Paya Rumput want change, they must be bold enough to pursue it, and I am offering myself to help make that happen. “I urge voters in the Paya Rumput constituency to come out early and fulfil their civic duty this Saturday.” – Bernama

engagement with the community was crucial to identifying the needs of residents, particularly families who might have been overlooked and had yet to receive welfare assistance, to ensure they were not left behind. Commenting on the campaign ahead of polling day tomorrow, he said this was a crucial period for candidates to ensure voters understood their respective offers and proposals before making their choices. Azman said the remaining campaign period should be used

“We are currently looking into the most appropriate forms of assistance to ease the burden on these families, who also require support in terms of healthcare. “This is my second visit here, and it is clear that this particular family needs assistance, not only in terms of health screenings but also monthly financial aid.” He was speaking to reporters during a house-to-house health screening programme in Krubong Jaya yesterday. He emphasised that direct

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

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ALL STORIES BY JOSEPH PETER

SUPP chief takes DAP to task

GPS moves to ensure govt aid reaches rural residents

KUCHING: Sarawak United Peoples Party (SUPP) has begun calling out its opponent Sarawak DAP publicly, as campaigning heats up for the 13th Sarawak state elections. SUPP, a component party of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) caretaker state government, is facing DAP in the urban state constituencies. SUPP president Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian launched a salvo against DAP during a public road construction launching ceremony in his Batu Kawah constituency. “They talk about check and balance. What sort of check and balance have they done? “They have 40 MPs. What have these 40 DAP MPs accomplished? Don’t tell us here in Sarawak about check and balance. We (GPS) know how to check and balance ourselves.” SUPP is the component party that will contest most of the urban seats. Three days ago, GPS chairman Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg hinted that the urban state constituencies in Sarawak where Chinese voters are the majority would face a tough contest in the state elections. Johari, who is caretaker premier following dissolution of the state legislative assembly last month, had appealed to Chinese voters to support GPS. “I call on voters, especially the Chinese in Kuching (southern Sarawak), Sibu (central Sarawak) and Miri (northern Sarawak) to give GPS a fresh mandate. “Let us work together for the betterment of Sarawak. GPS wants to continue addressing key issues affecting Sarawak. We want to continue advancing the Sarawak development agenda. We need the Chinese communities to support us. This is especially so in Kuching, Sibu and Miri. He was speaking at the installation ceremony for new office bearers of the Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak in Kuching on Tuesday. He added that the federation had asked the state government to consider proposals for more land titles for Chinese schools and places of worship. He also said the federation wants to see better immigration policies to ease the recruitment of foreign workers into Sarawak. “All these issues, we (state government) are looking into. However, we need fresh mandate from the (public),” he said. Johari expressed hope that the Chinese communities and state government could forge closer rapport. Sarawak has 82 state constituencies. Out of this number, there are 16 constituencies in which Chinese voters form the majority. The 16 seats form about 20% of the total seats in the state legislative assembly. The Chinese hot seats are mostly in the divisions of Kuching, Sibu and Miri. In the 2021 state polls, GPS won 76 seats. The other six seats were lost to the Opposition in urban Kuching and urban Sibu. Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) won four, while DAP won two. PSB dissolved itself in 2024 with three assemblymen joining the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), which is a component of GPS. One PSB assemblyman, See Chee How, became an independent in the Batu Lintang seat. See has since joined SUPP. The GPS component parties are Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu, SUPP, Parti Rakyat Sarawak and PDP.

use

telecommunication

SARAWAK Nomination Day Nov 28

o Coalition working to close gaps in awareness causing many to miss out : Caretaker minister

devices to apply.

“There are also those who are living isolated in hard-to-reach places and have no transport to go to welfare offices in cities and towns. “That is why community heads, village leaders and NGOs must play bigger roles in reaching out and disseminating information

KUCHING: A Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) state caretaker minister has admitted there are many rural communities throughout Sarawak that are missing out on goverment aid that includes numerous welfare programmes and development initiatives. Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who is in charge of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, said weaknesses in terms of communication and information dissemination were among the main factors contributing to the issue. “We (state authorities) are stepping up our efforts to reach out to those in the rural areas throughout Sarawak who are missing out on the many government initiatives and welfare programmes (because) they had not received the necessary information. “We need to overcome this lack of communication. “We must step up efforts to get closer to the rural population so that all of them can get the correct information and receive aid from the government programmes that are meant to improve their daily living,” he said when launching the SarawakKu Sayang programme in Serian town, located 60km from Kuching. Roland, who is incumbent state assemblyman for Tarat in southern Sarawak, said the GPS state government launched the programme as part of its efforts to interact with the grassroots populace. He added that the programme involved roadshows to towns, villages and rural longhouse communities. He also said the teams involved are made up of government units such as the Welfare Department, district offices and other government agencies. However, Roland said the matter of rural residents not benefitting from government welfare aid and development initiatives is something that has plagued rural Sarawak for years. “The problem has been seen in all parts of Sarawak, even in semi-rural areas and urban locations.” Roland, who is representing Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu, the main component party of GPS, is expected to defend his Tarat seat in the coming 13th Sarawak state elections. Last year, Datuk Rosey Yunus, who was then the Women, Community Wellbeing MIRI: The federal government has secured direct foreign investments into Malaysia, with Sarawak benefitting from these investments, said Miri MP Chiew Choon Man. Chiew, who is also Sarawak Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Youth national vice-chief, said Sarawak has benefitted from large-scale foreign investors as Malaysia becomes a destination of choice for global business development groups. He cited the recent announcement of a US$1.85 billion (RM7.55 billion) project as an example. “The investment by SoftBank Group and Grab saw them signing a joint development agreement with Petroleum Sarawak Bhd. “The three had proposed an initial combined seeding capital of up to US$1.85 billion.

and Childhood Development state deputy minister, said she found many elderly individuals were not getting the financial welfare aid and other benefits such as health treatment schemes that the government had put in place. “There are many seniors out there who may not be benefitting from government welfare aid as their names are not on the approved list of recipients. “They may not know of the many welfare schemes available for those aged 60 and above. “They may not be knowledgeable on how to Early

Early voting: Dec 8 Polling: Dec 12

to all the elderly groups.” Rosey, who is state assemblywoman, said there are many health assistance schemes specifically tailored for lower income earners and senior citizens aged 60 and above. Sarawak has a population of some three million people, with about a third living in the rural areas. Bekenu

Roland said the matter of rural residents not benefitting from government welfare aid and development initiatives is something that has plagued rural Sarawak for years. – BERNAMAPIC

State to benefit from federal foreign investments: Miri MP

(RM61.25 billion) in Malaysia to develop its projects over the next two years. “Meanwhile, All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce vice-chairman Pansy Ho is also planning to invest up to US$15 billion into Malaysia to manufacture materials for use in the semiconductor, precision high-tech engineering and digital economy sectors. “The growing foreign investments will see Sarawak continuing to get its share as the Madani government is fair in wanting to see all states getting mutual benefits from the central government.” Sarawak PKR is part of the Pakatan Harapan opposition pact in Sarawak. The other PH partners in Sarawak are Sarawak DAP and Sarawak Parti Amanah.

The project will involve developing artifical intelligence (AI) capacity across Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak. “The target of the AI project is to generate (computing) capacity of five gigawatts with (a higher) long-term target. “This is an example of how federal and states are mutually benefitting from the Madani government efforts to bring in foreign invesments into our country,” he said in a press statement. Chiew, who is also federal Tourism, Arts and Culture deputy minister, referred to other examples of clear results of growing confidence in Malaysia by major global business and industrial players. “Google is planning to invest US$15 billion

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

5 Objection to bid to challenge Pardons Board decision

Specialist team saves cop’s hand KUALA LUMPUR: A specialist team at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital (KLH) has successfully reattached L/Cpl Thierry Rodger Fendy’s hand in an eight-hour microsurgical operation. Thierry had his right hand severed in a parang attack on Wednesday. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the procedure demonstrated the expertise of Malaysia’s public healthcare system in treating serious and complex injuries. He thanked the surgeons, doctors, nurses and other healthcare personnel involved, particularly the hospital’s upper limb and microsurgery subspecialty team. Led by Dr Allan Ravi Rajagopal and Dr Aziz Sabbir Husain, the operation required a high degree of precision using a surgical microscope. “I am grateful to the Almighty for the joyful news regarding the successful hand replantation surgery of L/Cpl Thierry Rodger Fendy at KLH,” he said in a statement. Dzulkefly also acknowledged the hospital’s neurosurgery team for treating Thierry’s head injuries. He described the dedication of the medical personnel in managing the complex emergency as a source of national pride and highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary care in public healthcare facilities. The minister also paid tribute to Thierry for his courage and sacrifice in upholding public safety. He said the Health Ministry was committed to ensuring Thierry continued to receive comprehensive and intensive medical care to help restore his hand function to the best possible level. “Let us all join in prayer for L/Cpl Thierry’s full recovery, and may his family be granted the strength to endure this difficult trial,” he said. Meanwhile, Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng wished Thierry a speedy recovery in a separate statement and announced a RM5,000 contribution as a gesture of appreciation and support. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also expressed hope that Thierry’s recovery would go smoothly and that the medical team’s efforts would achieve the best possible outcome. “I deeply value the courage and sacrifice of L/Cpl Thierry. “He is one of thousands of security personnel who risk their own safety every day to ensure that the public can live in peace,” he said in a Facebook post.

o AGC requests time to respond to Malaysian Bar application to initiate judicial review

KUALA LUMPUR: The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) is opposing the Malaysian Bar’s application for leave to seek a judicial review of the Federal Territories Pardons Board’s decision allowing Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak to serve the remainder of his prison sentence in the SRC International Sdn Bhd case under house arrest. Senior Federal Counsel Ahmad Hanir Hambaly@Arwi told High Court Judge S. Indra Nehru yesterday that the AGC had received the Bar’s application by email two days earlier and needed time to study it before filing written submissions. “Certainly, the attorney-general is objecting to this leave application because the impugned decision

application for a Mareva injunction. On Nov 10 last year, the Kuala Lumpur High Court refused to grant 1MDB and the related companies leave to rely on Shabnam’s affidavit in their bid for a Mareva injunction, an order to freeze Rosmah’s assets. The suit was brought by 1MDB and 10 other companies, including five subsidiaries, namely 1MDB Energy Holdings Limited, 1MDB Energy Limited, 1MDB Energy (Langat) Limited, Global Diversified Investment Company Limited and SRC International Sdn Bhd. The remaining plaintiffs are Affinity Equity International Partners Limited, Alsen Chance Holdings Limited, Blackrock Commodities (Global) Limited, Blackstone Asia Real Estate Partners Limited and Brightstone Jewellery Limited. the Pardons Board decision to allow Najib to serve the remainder of his SRC International prison sentence under house arrest. It named the Federal Territories Pardons Board, the minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), the director-general of prisons and Najib as respondents. The Bar seeks a declaration that proceedings or a decision purportedly made under Articles 40 and 42 of the Federal Constitution were invalid in law and contrary to the Constitution. This includes the decision announced in a Sept 18 media statement by the second respondent allowing Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence under “house arrest” or “home detention”. The Bar also seeks to quash the Pardons Board proceedings and decision. Should leave be granted, it wants Najib’s house arrest stayed immediately pending the outcome of the judicial review, Bernama reported. In an affidavit affirmed by Malaysian Bar secretary Jayabalan Raman Kutty, the Bar said its application involved important principles concerning constitutional and fundamental rights. It argued that house arrest does not fall within the meaning of a pardon, suspension of sentence or remission of sentence under Article 42 of the Constitution. Jayabalan alleged that the Pardons Board had failed to properly consider relevant factors, including Najib’s convictions and prison sentences in other cases, the financial burden caused by his crimes and the impact on public confidence in anti-corruption efforts. On Nov 10, the High Court ordered Najib to serve the remainder of his SRC International prison sentence under house arrest at his residence in Langgak Duta, effective immediately.

that his client also wished to file written submissions as any decision following the granting of leave could affect the implementation of Najib’s house arrest. Counsel Zainur Zakaria, appearing for the Malaysian Bar, did not object to the requests for time from the AGC and Najib’s counsel. Indra Nehru fixed March 17 next year to hear the application and directed written submissions to be filed by Dec 14, with replies due by Dec 28. On Nov 10, the Malaysian Bar filed a fresh legal action challenging

relates to the decision of the King of Malaysia in presiding over a Pardons Board meeting, which is non-justiciable. “That is the stand that we will be taking. We will need more time to file our written submissions and to study the application so that we can put our objections in a proper manner. I humbly request time from the court for us to file our written submissions,” he said during the hearing. Meanwhile, lawyer Muhammad Farhan Muhammad Shafee, representing Najib, told the court

Media personnel waiting for updates near Najib’s residence in Jalan Langgak Duta. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

1MDB wins appeal to admit affidavit in Rosmah case PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal has allowed 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) and related

Her 319-page affidavit, spread across nine volumes, contained invoices, correspondence with luxury goods vendors, photographs and communications involving fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, and Eric Tan. “These exhibits show the modus operandi of the massive global financial scheme facilitated by associates such as Jho Low and Eric Tan, who arranged payments through offshore entities using funds allegedly misappropriated from 1MDB. “Allowing the affidavit would not cause substantial prejudice to Rosmah as she would be given sufficient time to examine and respond to its contents,” Shim said, adding that the affidavit was relevant to the companies’ claims and their

submit the affidavit. He said the Rules of Court contained no provision requiring an applicant seeking an extension of time to establish exceptional circumstances. The Court of Appeal also found that the companies had filed their application on June 20 last year, before written submissions in the injunction proceedings were completed on July 18, and had satisfactorily explained the delay of about two and a half months in preparing the affidavit. According to Shim, Shabnam, who was initially named as the second defendant in the lawsuit, agreed to provide her account only after the companies discontinued their claim against her through a consent order on April 9 last year.

“After reviewing the appeal records, the High Court’s grounds of judgment, the memorandum of appeal and submissions from both parties, we unanimously find that the High Court judge had applied the wrong principle in dismissing the application for leave. “Therefore, the appeal is allowed, and the High Court’s decision is set aside,” he said. The companies are seeking to freeze Rosmah’s assets over claims that she acquired more than 12,000 luxury items, including jewellery, watches and handbags, using about US$346 million allegedly misappropriated from 1MDB. Shim said the High Court had erred in finding that exceptional circumstances were required before the companies could be allowed to

companies to admit an affidavit by a Singaporean woman in support of their bid to freeze Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor’s assets in a lawsuit involving luxury goods worth more than US$346 million (RM1.41 billion). The three-member bench of Datuk Dr Alwi Abdul Wahab, Datuk Ismail Berahim and Datuk Leonard David Shim unanimously allowed the appeal yesterday, setting aside a High Court decision, with costs of RM30,000, Bernama reported. In delivering the decision, Shim said the High Court had applied the wrong legal principle when it rejected the application by the companies to admit the affidavit by Shabnam Naraindas Daswani.

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

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Keeping art of making tanjak alive o Terengganu craftsman preserves traditional designs while passing skill to next generation

HULU TERENGGANU: The tradition of wearing the tanjak , also known as the tengkolok or dastar , among Malay men is believed to have originated during the Malacca Sultanate before spreading to other states. Initially a simple piece of cloth wrapped around the head for protection, the tanjak gradually evolved into an intricate headpiece with elaborate folds and symbolic meanings. Its distinctive designs can reflect the wearer’s personality, identity, social standing, rank and place of origin. For Terengganu tanjak maker Muhammad Ali Yusof, crafting the traditional headgear requires more than technical skill. It demands a thorough understanding of Malay customs and protocols, as each headpiece tells a story about the person wearing it. According to the Discovery Terengganu portal, an initiative by the private sector and the Terengganu Tourism Department, the tradition of wearing the tanjak in the state is believed to date back to the early Terengganu Sultanate in the 18th century. More than a decorative headpiece, it symbolised status, authority and adherence to the customs and traditions of the Terengganu Malay royal institution. Muhammad Ali, 52, began learning the craft in 2014. He said making tanjak carries a significant responsibility to preserve this distinctive Malay heritage, particularly as he had been entrusted with making them for the Sultan of Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin and members of the royal family. His interest began while he was a member of Kumpulan Dendang Anak, a traditional music group whose members frequently perform in Malay

attire, including the tanjak . Muhammad Ali said tanjak making had two main categories – traditional designs, which follow established shapes and specifications, and contemporary creations, which give makers greater freedom to explore their own designs. “The time taken to make each piece varies according to its design. A traditional tanjak can usually be completed in about 30 minutes, while a contemporary creation may take up to half a day or even longer, depending on its complexity. “Most of the tanjak I make use songket fabric, either full songket or semi- songket material that combines songket with ordinary fabric, depending on the design and customer requirements,” he said when met recently at Karya Jemari Kayangan in Kampung Gaung Tengah, Kuala Berang. Terengganu has eight basic traditional tanjak designs, each with its own shape and identity. They are Belalai Gajah , worn by the Sultan, Anak Belalai Gajah , worn by the Tengku Mahkota or Crown Prince, Bija Diraja , designated for the Sultan’s advisers, Bendahara , worn by the Bendahara or chief minister, Laksamana , worn by the Laksamana or admiral, Dagang Sakit Dirantau , worn by Terengganu dignitaries, and Temalong Budu and Lang Melayang , worn by the public. “The Laksamana is among the most sought-after designs in Terengganu, followed by the Bendahara , which is smaller and looks neat when worn.” Muhammad Ali said customers also bought tanjak for investiture ceremonies, at which they receive medals or state honours. The design chosen for such occasions must conform to the relevant customs and protocols. “Some customers also buy tanjak

Muhammad Ali (left) said the craft requires continuous learning and practice, as well as an understanding of traditional designs. – BERNAMAPIC

culture to ensure that this heritage lives on,” he said. He is also teaching the craft to his 22-year-old son, Muhammad Mustaffa Matin, in the hope of passing it on to the next generation. “I am grateful that my second son has shown an interest in continuing the family legacy of making tanjak . The craft requires continuous learning and practice, as well as an understanding of traditional designs, precision in creating the folds and adherence to customs and protocols. “Preserving the art of tanjak making is not merely about sustaining a business. “It is also about ensuring that a heritage reflecting the identity and pride of the Malay community remains recognised, appreciated and passed down to future generations,” he said.

as personal collectibles or display pieces for their homes, attracted by the uniqueness of the designs and the heritage value embodied in each handcrafted piece. “The selling price ranges from RM100 to RM150 per piece, depending on the materials used, including the type of songket fabric, which determines the value of each tanjak ,” he said. He also offers other traditional Malay attire, including Baju Melayu , baju layang, baju takwa , warrior outfits, trousers and shawls. Beyond his local customers, Muhammad Ali’s handcrafted pieces have attracted buyers from overseas, including Australia. “A customer bought one to wear at an event, showing that traditional Malay attire also has a place among the international community,”

he said. He added that foreign tourists often enquired about the tanjak he wore during exhibitions. Hoping to expand his overseas market, Muhammad Ali uses opportunities to meet foreign visitors, particularly at exhibitions and events at Kampung Budaya Terengganu, to introduce the headgear to a wider audience. Despite the business opportunities, he believes preserving tanjak -making requires support from both the government and the community if it is to continue appealing to the young generation. “If we do not take the initiative to promote our own heritage, it will be difficult to introduce it to the outside world. “We need to make wearing traditional Malay attire part of our

FRIDAY | NOV 13, 2026

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Indonesian VP resigns amid high school diploma scandal

TAIPEI: A woman accused of spying for Beijing during an affair with Nvidia founder Jensen Huang visited Taiwan eight times in 2024 and 2025, a Taiwanese government minister said yesterday. Taiwan, a dominant player in the global semiconductor industry, sits at the centre of strategic competition between the United States and China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory. Jensen, who is US-based chip giant Nvidia CEO, has admitted to having an extramarital affair, reportedly with Singapore-based Megaspeed former executive Alice Huang, who US officials believe was working for Chinese intelligence. Beijing has rejected the spying allegations. Alice, who is also known as Huang Le, used a Hong Kong passport to enter Taiwan “under a standard business visitor status” and there were “no special flags”about her at the time, Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng told lawmakers. Chiu made the remarks in Taiwan’s Parliament in response to lawmakers’ questions about Alice’s entries into Taiwan and a New York Times report that the United States had advised Taiwan as early as 2024 to monitor her movements. “At least we at the Mainland Affairs Council did not receive any relevant information. If we had, we definitely would have stepped up our entry screening and border flow management.” He said records show that Alice visited Taiwan three times in 2024 and five times in 2025. The records do not show any entries for this year, he said. The government has said Taiwan’s security agencies are investigating the incident. Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee yesterday said “there is no public information” about whether Alice is “suspected of any criminal offence or on the related investigative procedures”. – AFP Alleged Chinese spy in Nvidia case entered Taiwan 8 times 10 cops, 18 militants killed in Pakistan PESHAWAR: Gunmen attacked police during an operation against illegal gold mining in northwestern Pakistan on Wednesday, killing 10 officers, while 18 militants died in the ensuing fighting, an official police statement said. A statement by provincial police in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said officers were returning from a mine in the Gumbat area of Kohat district when militants opened fire on them. Twelve police personnel were also wounded, it said. In the aftermath of the clashes, the Pakistani Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility for a series of attacks across the country, including one on a police convoy in the Gumbat area. Earlier, a senior administrative official in Kohat said militants set two police vehicles on fire during the assault, while two other police vehicles and one private vehicle are missing. Another senior administrative official in the Orakzai area of Kohat said 10 militants belonging to the TTP were killed during a separate operation in the district. A large quantity of weapons was also recovered from the militants, the official added. Security forces are battling an intensifying militancy in the border province they say emanates from Afghanistan, an accusation its Taliban government denies. A spokesperson for a local emergency service earlier on Wednesday said there had been a “firing incident involving police personnel” in Kohat district, adding that rescue workers were treating a dozen wounded officers. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been fraught since the Taliban authorities took power in 2021, and worsened after deadly border clashes in October last year that led to near-total closure of the border. – AFP

Studies executive director Khairul Fahmi. “Jokowi will retain political influence but Gibran’s departure could reduce his network’s direct access to power. For Prabowo, this creates greater room to consolidate his leadership and pursue his own political agenda.” In a separate development, Indonesian police yesterday said they have enough initial evidence to pursue treason charges against four suspects in a case involving the wiretapping of Prabowo. Police would conduct “intensive” investigations to develop the case further, said national police official Asep Safrudin. They have named four senior police officers as suspects, including former police chief and Prabowo’s chief of staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo. Listyo was known as a loyalist to former president Jokowi. Lawmakers in a hearing yesterday urged police chief Suyudi Ario Seto to investigate who ultimately ordered Listyo to conduct the alleged wiretapping, and the political interests that could be behind it. – AFP

o Exit marks significant political realignment but does not necessarily threaten govt stability: Think tank

JAKARTA: Indonesia’s vice-president resigned yesterday in the midst of a scandal over his high school diploma, the Parliament head said, adding to pressure on a government facing widespread dissatisfaction over the economy, graft and wildfires. Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 39, submitted his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto and Parliament, said Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly speaker. There have been repeated calls for Gibran’s resignation following a Supreme Court ruling last month to annul his high school qualification. Speaker Ahmad Muzani said Gibran met the leaders of Parliament yesterday “to submit his letter of resignation from his position as vice-president of the Republic of Indonesia”. Gibran told them he had submitted the same letter to Prabowo.

Indonesia’s vice-president does not have many constitutionally defined powers apart from acting as the president’s representative at official events and taking over if his boss is incapacitated. Gibran’s downfall comes as thousands have taken to the streets in recent weeks to protest economic hardship, graft, perceived authoritarianism and the government’s handling of months of devastating wildfires emitting a toxic haze that has made thousands ill. His exit is likely to complicate a loose governing alliance between Prabowo and his predecessor Joko Widodo – Gibran’s father – who goes by the moniker Jokowi. The resignation “marks a significant political realignment, but does not necessarily threaten government stability”, according to think tank Institute for Security and Strategic

Filipino activists wearing blonde wigs and protesting against the upcoming visit and participation of Trump ahead of the 49th Asean Summit, outside Trump Tower in Makati City, Metro Manila in the Philippines yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

Asean Summit commences in Philippines MANILA: The Philippines will host at least 19 world and global institution leaders in the upcoming 49th Asean Summit and Related Summits this week, Philippine News Agency reported. community and youth. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, who chairs the summit, will be joined by the leaders of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam.

Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia, the United Nations and the United States. New Zealand will be represented by its Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister David Seymour while Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Marcos will convene the 29th Asean Plus Three Summit and the 21st East Asia Summit on Tuesday, a forum for dialogue and cooperation on strategic, political and economic issues of common concern and interest in the region. He will later hand over the Asean Chairship to Singapore. The day will culminate with the Asean-United States Special Summit to be attended by US President Donald Trump. “The Philippines remains committed to advancing an Asean that is peaceful, resilient and future-ready, with regional cooperation translating into meaningful benefits for its peoples.” – Bernama-PNA

The Foreign Affairs Department on Wednesday said the attendance underscores Asean’s “unique convening power and role as a platform for dialogue and cooperation” with the wider international community. The high-level engagements will commence on Sunday with the summit opening ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Centre, followed by the Plenary and Retreat Sessions, during which Asean leaders will take stock of the Philippines’s chairship achievements. The leaders will discuss ways to strengthen Asean’s collective capacity to address emerging regional and global challenges, including the situation in Myanmar. They will also have interface meetings with Asean parliamentarians, the business

Myanmar will be represented by its Foreign Ministry Asean Affairs Department director-general. The plenary will feature remarks from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. The department said their participation highlights the value of Asean’s engagement with key global partners in pushing for regional economic resilience and is well aligned with the Philippine chairship priorities, particularly its Prosperity Corridors. The Related Summits, or the Plus One Summits, will follow on Monday and Tuesday, and will be co-chaired by the leaders of